We have just returned from our cruise -- Diamond Princess (Feb.. 26 - Mar. 5, 2005). We have been on several other cruise lines; however, we returned to Princess because of our great experience on the Golden Princess last year in the Caribbean.

We booked mid-January and got a good travel deal -- for a balcony cabin -- near the front of the ship on Deck 12 -- Aloha. We are active -- so the location was great for us -- very close to the Gym/Spa and Adult Lotus Pool. We are Canadian from Toronto -- we are Baby Boomers -- professionals -- have three children (did not travel with them) -- in our 50s -- fairly well traveled -- we traveled with another couple. When one reads a review you should know the bias that it is written from -- and we all have a bias.

Embarkation: Because we needed to return our rental car to Enterprise by noon on Saturday we had to get to the ship in the morning. No problem -- we had a very quick and very receptive boarding. Because our friends were Platinum -- we went to the Platinum/Suite/Elite Lounge. This was a disappointment -- not any different than the other areas except fewer people. Main criticism: they really should have some drinks -- soda/coffee -- free and available for everyone. We boarded the ship after an hour wait -- I believe before 1:00 p.m. and went to our cabin. Not long after we arrived at our cabin, so did our bags ... so we could unpack -- very positive. Read more